Fifth annual Luau for Backpacks set for July 28

FALLBROOK – Yearning for a trip to the islands? It's that time of year again, when St. John's Episcopal Church presents the annual Luau for Backpacks, 4-8 p.m., Saturday, July 28.

For the fifth year, the large shady church patio will be transformed into a flowery island paradise. The sound of ukuleles and the enticing fragrance of a home-cooked Hawaiian dinner will fill the air. Icy wine coolers will clink, and hula dancers will sway in graceful Polynesian choreographies.

All the good fun will benefit a good cause: filled backpacks for children who would otherwise be starting school without supplies.

St. John's has raised the goal to 400 backpacks, which will be given to the children of families registered with the Fallbrook Food Pantry Aug. 11.

"The church is small, but the need is great, so we are once again rising up to meet it," Luau Chairman Mike McCormick said. "And the community is behind us 100 percent with contributions and volunteers, as they have been in the past."

Businesses and organizations in Fallbrook, Temecula and Bonsall are invited to contribute items for the silent auction or for an auction and raffle led by the Rev. Leland Jones.

Space is limited, so residents are encouraged to get their tickets soon, from St. John's office on Tuesday or Thursday at 434 N. Iowa Street, by calling (760) 728-2908 or from McCormick, (562) 505-1779. Advance adult tickets are $15 and the day of the event, $20; children 12 and under are $7 in advance and $10 at the door.